The Best Virtual Assistant Classes of 2024

There was a time when I faced a challenge at work: I didn't know how to navigate Salesforce effectively. While updating a case (or a work order) as a remote maintenance coordinator, I struggled to find how to edit a particular setting. Unfortunately, reaching out to my colleagues wasn’t an option, as they were grappling with the same issue. Frustrated, I turned to the internet for help and stumbled upon Salesforce's Trailblazer Community.

In this supportive forum, I found a thread where many users, known as Trailblazers, had experienced the same problem. They shared their insights and provided detailed instructions on how to resolve the issue. With this new guidance, it helped me navigate the settings with confidence and ultimately allowed me to complete my task successfully.

The experience highlighted the importance of continuously upskilling for my virtual assistant career. It emphasized the value of leveraging VA courses, online resources, and communities to stay current with evolving technologies.

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In today’s fast-paced, technology-driven world, the role of virtual assistants has gained tremendous traction, becoming a vital asset for businesses of all sizes. As companies increasingly adopt remote work models, the demand for virtual assistant jobs continues to rise. Organizations are looking for virtual assistant services that can manage various tasks, from administrative duties such as data entry to specialized roles like social media management and customer support.

Throughout my journey as a virtual assistant, I’ve learned the importance of developing the right skills to thrive in a competitive field. Whether it's leveraging resources like the Salesforce Trailblazer Community, free courses or online training, these tools can make a significant difference. Those looking to grow their virtual assistant careers can benefit from the best virtual assistant training programs and a well-structured VA course to stay ahead.

Virtual assistant classes have emerged as a valuable solution, offering structured learning (online courses or training videos) that covers key skills, tools, and industry best practices.

These courses not only provide the foundational knowledge needed to succeed but also help individuals build confidence in their abilities. With the right education and training, anyone can transform their passion for helping others into a rewarding career as a virtual assistant, ready to meet the diverse needs of businesses in the evolving remote work environment.

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What Do Virtual Assistants Do?

Common Tasks of a Virtual Assistant

The role of a virtual assistant can be diverse, but here are some of the most common tasks you might find yourself handling:

• Administrative tasks: Managing calendars, data entry, scheduling appointments, and organizing files.
• Email management: Sorting and prioritizing emails to ensure important communications are handled in a timely manner.
• Customer service: Responding to customer inquiries and handling issues through email or live chat.
• Digital marketing tasks: Supporting efforts like social media marketing & posting, content creation, and basic SEO (Search engine optimization) tasks.

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What Are the Different Virtual Assistant Specializations?

Virtual assistant specializations refer to specific areas of expertise within the broader field of virtual assistant services. A specialized VA focuses on particular skills or industries, enabling them to offer more targeted services. These specializations can include roles such as:

• Bookkeeping VA: Handling financial records, invoicing, expense tracking, and keeping accurate financial reporting for businesses.
• Executive VA: Providing high-level administrative support to executives, including managing schedules, coordinating meetings, and handling confidential information.

• Pinterest VA: Specializing in managing Pinterest accounts, creating pins, and helping businesses increase their reach through Pinterest marketing.
• Real Estate VA: Supporting real estate agents with tasks like listing management, customer follow-ups, and documentation.
• Marketing VA: Assisting with digital marketing strategies, social media campaigns, and lead generation.

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What Tools and Technologies “Assist” Virtual Assistants?

Like a photographer needing the right camera, virtual assistants rely on various tools to excel in their roles.

Different types of virtual assistants - such as administrative, social media, real estate, and marketing VAs - require specific tools that align with their specializations and demand skills. 

For example: administrative VAs may use project management software like Trello or Asana to organize tasks, while social media VAs benefit from platforms like Hootsuite for scheduling posts. 

Communication tools, such as Slack, Zoom, and MS Teams, have become staples in the business world, enabling seamless collaboration and real-time updates. 

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These are just a few of the essential tools known in a remote work setup. However, in today's fast-paced technology era, it’s always best to keep up with the trends and continuously learn new skills to attract potential clients. The internet offers a powerful array of opportunities for learning, with many platforms providing free courses and virtual assistant training. Leveraging these resources allows VAs to progress in their virtual assistant career to stay competitive and adapt to the evolving demands of the job market.

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Skills To Acquire To Become A Successful Virtual Assistant

Remember how a photographer needs the right camera? Of course, the camera is just a medium; they need the skills to become an award-winning artist. 

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Similarly, virtual assistants must acquire essential skills to achieve success in their roles. Beyond familiarizing themselves with the tools of the trade, they need to develop practical skills so that they can meet the demands of various potential clients and projects.

Some essential skills to acquire include:

Organizational and Time Management Skills

One skill that is often underrated yet invaluable for virtual assistants is organizational and time management. Especially when juggling multiple clients and tasks, the ability to prioritize effectively can make a significant difference in productivity.

Successful virtual assistants excel at managing their schedules, setting clear deadlines, and using tools to keep track of tasks.

Developing these skills allows for the completion of all projects on time and to a high standard, ultimately leading to greater client satisfaction and long-term success in their careers.

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Communication Skills

In one of my previous training as a Guest Experience Agent, I learned from my trainer that it’s best to over communicate. It might sound excessive at first, but what I understood from her was that consistent and clear communication fosters trust and transparency with clients. 

As a virtual assistant - effective and professional communication maintains clarity around project expectations and deadlines. This not only helps avoid misunderstandings but also builds a solid rapport with clients.

Whether it’s through emails, messaging platforms, or video calls, the ability to articulate thoughts clearly and respond promptly leads to better collaboration, ultimately enhancing the overall client experience, ensuring that every interaction contributes to client satisfaction.

Technical Skills for Virtual Assistants

Clients are increasingly interested in hiring virtual assistants who are certified in specific areas, as this demonstrates a level of expertise and proficiency. For instance, whether a VA is skilled in using a system like Salesforce or holds a QuickBooks certification, these credentials signal to clients that they are capable and ready to contribute from day one. This willingness to pay for a certified virtual assistant ultimately saves clients time on training and onboarding.

A good start in developing technical skills involves learning the commonly used software or systems like Google Suite and Microsoft Office, which streamline communication and project management. 

Familiarity with automation tools (e.g.  Zapier) is also beneficial as these tools allow virtual assistants  to automate repetitive tasks - like sending welcome emails to new clients or updating spreadsheets automatically.

If you feel like you’re ready for the next level or want to update your skills - commonly referred to as "upskilling" - consider enrolling in online courses to further enhance your technical skills. This investment can add significant value to your virtual assistant services, making you even more appealing to potential clients!

Why You Should Enroll in Virtual Assistant Courses

Investing isn’t only about financial gains; it also involves personal development. Think of it like planting a seed - when you invest time in learning new skills, you create opportunities for future growth. Taking online classes or virtual assistant training courses can provide you with the knowledge and skills that can open doors to new job opportunities and help you succeed in the virtual assistant world.

Structured Learning to Boost Your Skill Set

Structured learning through training courses is crucial, as enrolling in the best virtual assistant training programs provides a clear pathway to acquiring essential skills and knowledge. A good example is: a course on social media management can teach you how to effectively schedule posts, analyze engagement metrics, and create appealing content.

Many of these courses offer free options, catering to various budgets and allowing aspiring VAs to explore different types of training. Whether you’re enrolled in courses like Laptop Lifestyle Bootcamp and Day VA, or a specialized VA program - structured learning provides individuals with the essential tools to thrive.

Moreover, these courses frequently provide opportunities for learners to engage with industry experts and fellow students, fostering connections that can result in meaningful collaborations and job opportunities. Ultimately, dedicating time to structured training courses not only enhances one’s skills but also builds credibility in the competitive world of virtual assistance.

Access to Experienced Instructors and Mentors

In mid-2024, after wrapping up a project with a previous client, I decided to use my newfound time to invest in professional development through LinkedIn Learning. This structured learning not only helped me acquire new skills but also refine my existing ones, ultimately leading to the opportunity of landing a new client who would later become my mentor.

My mentor took an interest in my profile, particularly due to my knowledge of Breezeway - a skill I had showcased in my LinkedIn updates. This connection was invaluable, as she invited me to a conference in New Zealand, offering insights to help grow my VA business.

This experience highlighted that structured learning isn’t just about gaining knowledge; it also creates pathways to mentorship and networking that can profoundly enhance one’s career. What began as a commitment to upskilling has blossomed into a rewarding relationship that continues to shape my professional journey.

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Photo grabbed from Development West Coast NZ’s website.

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Certification and Credibility

A great way to enhance your credibility as a virtual assistant is by obtaining certification from reputable courses. Just as a degree or professional qualification can validate your expertise in traditional careers, certifications signal to potential clients that you possess the skills and knowledge needed to perform your role effectively.

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Completing a virtual assistant course not only equips you with essential and new skills but also demonstrates your commitment to professional growth and excellence in your field. Clients often seek certified virtual assistants because it reassures them of your proficiency and dedication to delivering quality service.

Top 10 Virtual Assistant Courses in 2023

1. The Savvy System by Abbey Ashley
   1. Pros: Comprehensive training on starting and growing a VA business. It includes templates and community support.
   2. Cons: Course content may be overwhelming for absolute beginners.
   3. Pricing: Varies; specific details available on the course website.
   4. Best For: Those looking for a holistic approach to starting a virtual assistant business.

2. 90 Day VA by Esther Inman
   1. Pros: Quick, structured program designed to launch your business in 90 days; access to an active community and job leads.
   2. Cons: Requires a time commitment and may not be suitable for those with a busy schedule.
   3. Pricing: Varies (from $500 - $1000)
   4. Best For: Beginners eager to start their VA business quickly.

3. Fully Booked VA by Gina Horke
   1. Pros: Comprehensive training with numerous bonuses; weekly group calls for ongoing support; lifetime access to course materials.
   2. Cons: Pricing may vary, which could be a barrier for some; higher cost compared to other programs.
   3. Pricing: Ranges from $300 to $500, depending on the specific course offering.
   4. Best For: Aspiring virtual assistants who want to explore different niches within the industry, including writing, email marketing, social media management, real estate, and project management.

4. Pinterest VA by Kristin Larsen
   1. Pros: Specialized training focused on Pinterest; includes success stories and practical strategies.
   2. Cons: Limited to Pinterest VA services.
   3. Pricing: Starts at $79
   4. Best For: Those looking to specialize in Pinterest marketing.

5. Ultimate Virtual Assistant Bootcamp by Annalisa Abell
   1. Pros: Step-by-step training aimed at significant income generation; practical skills for immediate application.
   2. Cons: Higher cost may deter some potential students.
   3. Pricing: Stars at $997 (only comes with course and access to the virtual assistant community) or $1,212 with a coaching call.
   4. Best For: Individuals looking to earn income from home and wanting practical training.

6. Udemy Virtual Assistant Courses
   1. Pros: Offers a wide variety of courses that showcases reviews, helping you identify high-value options based on user feedback.
   2. Cons: The course format may lack personalized support compared to other structured programs, and quality can vary since anyone can create a course on Udemy.
   3. Pricing: Prices typically range from $19.99 to $199.99, with frequent discounts available, making it budget-friendly.
   4. Best For: New virtual assistants seeking guidance on choosing the right tools and strategies, with the added benefit of a downloadable certificate to enhance their portfolio.

7. HubSpot Academy
   1. Pros: Offers a wide range of courses in marketing, sales, SEO, and customer relationship management. The certification provided for HubSpot's software is valuable, as it's widely recognized in the industry.
   2. Cons: While the courses are free, they may not provide personalized support that some learners might prefer.
   3. Pricing: Free access to courses and certifications.
   4. Best For: For virtual assistants looking to enhance their marketing and sales skills, particularly those interested in mastering tools like HubSpot.

8. LinkedIn Learning
   1. Pros: They offer a vast library of courses across various topics, including virtual assistant skills. The platform features beginner-friendly courses and curated learning paths based on user interests, along with a downloadable certificate upon course completion.
   2. Cons: Requires a subscription, which may be a barrier for some learners; not all courses may align directly with specific virtual assistant needs.
   3. Pricing: Approximately $39.99 per month or about $239.88 annually, with a free trial available.
   4. Best For: Virtual assistants seeking to develop a diverse skill set and utilize LinkedIn as their portfolio.

9. Skillshare: How To Start a Virtual Assistant Business With Upwork TODAY!
   1. Pros: Ideal for beginners, guiding users through setting up their VA business and creating a strong profile on Upwork.
   2. Cons: Requires a subscription and may not be suitable for those already experienced with Upwork.
   3. Pricing: Free trial available; subscription required afterward.
   4. Best For: Beginners looking to start a VA business while managing a 9-5 job or recent graduates.

10. Virtual Excellence Academy
    1. Pros: Comprehensive and structured curriculum; offers community support; hands-on learning.
    2. Cons: Course starts in January 2025, so there’s a waitlist; higher cost at $1,190
    3. Pricing: $1,190 for the foundational course
    4. Best For: Aspiring VAs who want a thorough understanding of the field and are willing to wait for the next cohort.

FAQs

• What are the benefits of taking a virtual assistant course?some text
  • Enrolling in a virtual assistant course offers key benefits like building essential skills, earning certification for credibility, and connecting with industry professionals. These courses also provide insights into launching and managing a VA business and prepare you for various virtual assistant jobs, opening up more career opportunities.
• Can I learn at my own pace?some text
  • Yes, platforms like HubSpot Academy, LinkedIn Learning, and Udemy allow you to learn at your own pace, making it convenient to fit your learning around any schedule, whether you're working or managing other commitments.
• How do I determine which virtual assistant course is the best fit for me?some text
  • Consider your career goals, areas of interest, budget, and the specific skills you wish to develop. Explore different types of courses that offer beginner-friendly content, and check for reviews and testimonials shared by those who have completed the online courses. These insights can often be found on the course website, review platforms, or social media groups related to virtual assistant training.
• What types of support are available during and after the virtual assistant courses?some text
  • Many courses provide access to experienced instructors and mentors who can provide guidance and answer questions. 

Moreover, community forums allow learners to connect, share experiences, and network with peers in the virtual assistant field, creating a collaborative learning environment. Some programs may also provide resources such as study groups, one-on-one coaching, or ongoing access to course materials for continued support after completion.

• What skills can I expect to gain from virtual assistant courses?some text
  • Virtual assistant courses generally cover a variety of useful skills that can help you succeed in the field. You can expect to learn about time management, effective communication, social media management, email marketing, project management, or training courses in specific softwares like HubSpot or SalesForce.
• Are there any free courses available?some text
  • Yes, several platforms, including HubSpot Academy, offer free training options that provide certification upon completion. Other platforms like Udemy and Coursera also have free courses available, but they may not always include certification.

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Embrace Your Journey as a Virtual Assistant

In the ever-evolving landscape of remote work, becoming a virtual assistant offers a wealth of opportunities for those eager to grow personally and professionally. As we've explored, investing in your skills through reputable virtual assistant courses can be a game-changer. 

Just as I turned to the Salesforce Trailblazer Community for guidance, aspiring virtual assistants can benefit greatly from an online virtual assistant training and structured courses that build foundational knowledge and boost confidence. These programs equip individuals with essential skills, from administrative support to specialized roles, allowing them to transform their passion for helping others into a successful career.

Investing in virtual assistant training courses is like planting a seed that can grow into a fruitful career, enhancing your portfolio and boosting your marketability in a competitive landscape. My experience with LinkedIn Learning demonstrated that this investment not only broadens your skill set but also opens doors to valuable networking opportunities and mentorship.

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With the right training and determination, you can thrive as a virtual assistant in this rewarding field.